Unlocking the Magic of the June Birthstones
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
Alexandrite, along with pearl and moonstone, are the official June birthstones, each a stunning gemstone with alluring magic and symbolism that extend beyond their association with one particular month. The more you understand the depths of these gemstones, the better you can truly appreciate the June birthstone and what it represents.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- About Alexandrite
- Alexandrite Stone Symbolism
- About Pearl
- Pearl Stone Symbolism
- About Moonstone
- Moonstone Symbolism
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What the June Birthstone Can Mean For You
1. About Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a stunning gemstone known for its captivating color-changing properties, shifting from green in daylight to red under incandescent light. Discovered in Russia's Ural Mountains in the 1830s, it is named after Tsar Alexander II.
Alexandrite Stone Symbolism
There are many ways you can consider the symbolism of alexandrite and make connections to your personal history, beliefs, and more. This form of chrysoberyl changes colors in different types of light, and there are as many different meanings for alexandrite as there are hues for this lovely gem.
• Color
Alexandrite is most frequently recognized in mid-purple shades that may show undertones of red, blue, or green. In different lights, the entire gem can change color to green, orange, pink, or other shades depending on the light spectrum and viewing angle. Because purple is its most common color, however, alexandrite is most commonly associated with purple symbolism, including spirituality, imagination, ambition, independency, royalty, mystery, fantasy, luxury, and wisdom.
• Geography
Where alexandrite is mined can be a great connection to make for the stone’s symbolism. The gem was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia, and in fact was named for then-Prince Alexander, who would become Czar Alexander II. The rare stone has also been found in Brazil, India, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Madagascar, but quantities have always been limited and alexandrite can be challenging to find. This makes the precious gem even more symbolic of its geographic origins.
• Anniversaries
While this unique gemstone is the June birthstone, it is also the traditional gemstone of the fifty-fifth wedding anniversary. This is the perfect connection for such a rare gem, as it is rare for many couples to reach such esteemed longevity in their union. Because of this, alexandrite can be even more meaningful as a birthstone gift for someone’s fifty-fifth birthday. Alternatively, alexandrite is also associated with the fifteenth wedding anniversary as an alternative to the more common symbolic gem, ruby.
• Zodiac
For celestial symbolism, consider alexandrite’s connection to the zodiac. The
jewel is the official gemstone for the sign Gemini, an appropriate choice as Gemini’s
calendar range encompasses most of June, from May 21 through June 20. Furthermore, the color-changing gem is amazingly suitable for the zodiac sign that shares two personalities – the twins – together in one cohesive whole.
• Celebrities
While alexandrite is not quite so popular on the Hollywood or royalty circuit
as other gems because of its extreme rarity, it has been worn by Felicity Huffman and Anna Farris. If they are favorite celebrities of that someone special, and alexandrite ring can be the perfect connection that won’t be too blatantly obvious.
• Culture
Due to its changeable nature, alexandrite has also been nicknamed the chameleon gem” and is a fun choice for anyone who loves those color-changing lizards. The gemstone is also an elevated connection to quirky mood rings that change colors, and can be a fun choice for anyone with connections to lighting (which causes the gem’s signature color changes), such as an electrician or a theatrical lighting technician.
• Transformation
Because of its ephemeral nature and color changes, alexandrite has long been associated with regeneration, whether through physical healing or spiritual rejuvenation. This can also make the stone appropriate for anyone seeking balance or moving between two extremes in their own personal life as they learn how to let those two parts of themselves work together so both shine with beauty.
“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”
— Claude P verified buyer (Vintage Ring Review)
2. About Pearl
Pearls are unique as they are the only gemstones formed by living animals. Various types of mollusks, including clams, oysters, and mussels, can produce pearls. When an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters the mollusk's tissue, the animal responds by secreting layers of nacre, a calcium carbonate compound, to cover and protect itself. Over time, these layers accumulate to form what we know as a pearl.
Pearl Stone Symbolism
There are many ways to consider the symbolism of pearls and make connections to your personal history, beliefs, and more. This unique gemstone exhibit a natural luster and iridescence, and there are as many different meanings for pearls as there are hues and shapes for this lovely gem.
• Color
Pearls are found in a wide range of colors, each possessing its own unique beauty and meaning. Their hues can span from white and ivory to tan, beige, brown, black, gray, and silver. Additionally, pearls may exhibit vibrant tints like yellow, pink, blue, mauve, and lavender.
• Varieties
Where pearls are found can significantly enhance their symbolism. The earliest known sources of pearls are in the Persian Gulf, along the coasts of what are now Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These regions were historically renowned for their natural pearl fisheries, dating back thousands of years. Additionally, ancient civilizations such as those in India, China, and Egypt also prized pearls. This rich history makes pearls even more symbolic of their geographic origins.• Anniversaries
While the pearl is the June birthstone, it is also the traditional gemstone of the thirtieth wedding anniversary. This milestone is often celebrated with pearl jewelry, representing the beauty and resilience of a long-lasting marriage. Pearls are also associated with the third wedding anniversary, where they symbolize purity and wisdom.
• Zodiac
For celestial symbolism, consider the pearl’s connection to the zodiac. The pearl is the official gemstone for the sign Gemini, an appropriate choice as Gemini’s calendar range encompasses most of June, from May 21 through June 20. Furthermore, the pearl’s serene and reflective qualities are beautifully suited to the dual nature of Gemini, representing harmony and balance within the sign’s twin personalities.
• Celebrities
For those who love the glamour of Hollywood and the movies, you can enjoy a pearl ring knowing it is a favorite of many celebrities and royalty. This style has adorned the fingers of top names including Michelle Obama, Rhianna, and Kate Middleton.
• Culture
Due to their timeless beauty and elegance, pearls have been nicknamed the 'Queen of Gems' and 'Tears of the Moon.' They are a sophisticated choice for anyone who appreciates classic and refined jewelry. Pearls also carry a whimsical charm, often referred to as 'Mermaid’s Tears,' making them a delightful choice for those who love the sea and mythical stories. The gemstone’s serene and reflective qualities make it a thoughtful gift for individuals with connections to water.
• Harmony
Because of their natural beauty and luminous quality, pearls have long been associated with purity, wisdom, and serenity. This makes them an ideal choice for anyone seeking tranquility or striving for balance in their personal life. Pearls symbolize the seamless blending of various aspects of oneself, reflecting how different parts can come together to create a unified and beautiful whole.
— Chloe G verified buyer (Vintage Ring Review)
3. About Moonstone
Moonstone is an enchanting gemstone known for its ethereal glow and mystical allure. It belongs to the feldspar group of minerals and exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called adularescence, which gives it a soft, billowy light that seems to float beneath the surface of the stone. This effect, reminiscent of moonlight, is what gives moonstone its name.
Moonstone Symbolism
There are many ways to consider the symbolism of moonstone and make connections to your personal history, beliefs, and more. This unique gemstone exhibits adularescence, which creates a soft, glowing effect, and there are as many different meanings for moonstone as there are hues for this lovely gem.
• Color
Moonstone is frequently recognized for its captivating appearance, with colors ranging from milky white and vivid blue to peach, yellow, gray, and even green. Because white is its most common color, moonstone is most commonly associated with symbolism related to purity, new beginnings, and intuition. Its serene, milky appearance is thought to promote calmness and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking clarity and spiritual insight.
• Geography
Where moonstone is mined can be a great connection to make for the stone’s symbolism. The gem was first discovered in ancient Sri Lanka, where it was believed to be solidified moonbeams and revered for its connection to lunar deities. Today, moonstone is also mined in India, Myanmar, Madagascar, Australia, Brazil, and the United States, each location adding its unique cultural and geographical significance to the stone. The diverse origins of moonstone enhance its symbolism of global harmony, emotional balance, and spiritual insight.
• Anniversaries
While this unique gemstone is the June birthstone, it is also the traditional gemstone of the thirteenth wedding anniversary. This milestone is often celebrated with moonstone jewelry, representing the mystery and depth of a long-lasting marriage. Moonstone symbolizes emotional balance and harmony, making it a meaningful choice for this special occasion. Additionally, moonstone is associated with the third wedding anniversary, where it symbolizes purity and wisdom.
• Zodiac
For celestial symbolism, consider moonstone’s connection to the zodiac. The jewel is the official gemstone for the sign Cancer, an appropriate choice as Cancer’s calendar range encompasses most of June, from June 21 through July 22. Furthermore, the moonstone’s ethereal glow and shifting colors beautifully reflect the nurturing and intuitive nature of Cancer, symbolizing emotional depth and harmony.
• Celebrities
For those who love the glamour of Hollywood and the movies, you can enjoy a moonstone ring knowing it is a favorite of many celebrities and royalty. This style has adorned the fingers of top names including Ema Watson, Julia Roberts, and Kate Middleton.
• Culture
Due to their timeless beauty and elegance, moonstones have been nicknamed the 'Queen of Gems' and the 'Tears of the Moon.' They are a sophisticated choice for anyone who appreciates classic and refined jewelry. Moonstones also carry a whimsical charm, often referred to as 'Mermaid’s Tears,' making them a delightful choice for those who love the sea and mythical stories.
• New Beginnings
Because of their natural beauty, moonstones have long been associated with mystical and lunar qualities. They are believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional balance, and provide protection to travelers, especially at night. Additionally, moonstones symbolize new beginnings, inner growth, and strength, making them a meaningful and thoughtful gift for those embarking on new journeys or seeking spiritual insight.
— Lee S verified buyer (Vintage Ring Review)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes alexandrite unique among gemstones?
Alexandrite is unique because of its remarkable color-changing ability. It appears green in daylight or fluorescent light and changes to red or purplish-red under incandescent light. This rare and striking phenomenon makes alexandrite highly prized and valuable and Amelia Island to the lush greenery of parks like Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.
What are the differences between natural, cultured, and imitation pearls?
Natural pearls form without human intervention and are very rare. Cultured pearls are created by inserting a bead or piece of tissue into a mollusk to stimulate pearl production and are the most common type available today. Imitation pearls are man-made from materials like glass or plastic and are designed to look like real pearls but lack the same luster and value.
What is adularescence in moonstone?
Adularescence is the optical phenomenon that gives moonstone its distinctive glow. It appears as a soft, billowy light that seems to float just beneath the surface of the stone, creating an ethereal and mystical effect.
Our Top Picks For June Birthstone Rings
When selecting a June birthstone ring, choose the design and era that best reflect your personal style and flair. Here's a look at our top picks:
What the June Birthstone Can Mean to You
Ultimately, because alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone have so many different meanings, they can represent whatever you want. Even more significant, these gemstones can have multiple meanings, allowing for greater symbolism and connection. Whether as the June birthstones or as signature pieces of jewelry, alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone are versatile and meaningful, making them perfect to wear any month of the year.
Antique Engagement Rings For Everyone:
No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.
FIND THE PERFECT ENGAGEMENT RING:
Antique diamond cuts are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of June Birthstone Rings today!
SUZANNE SACHS
Contact Suzanne
If you love vintage or eco-friendly jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of eco-friendly vintage engagement rings.
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